Iceland Is Cool!

So Iceland is pretty cold, but it's also really cool. Took a group of 20 students for a four-day tour of the country several weeks ago and learned a few things on from our guides that impressed me. By the way, did you see the politician giving a speech before Parliament while breastfeeding? We stood in front of and behind that parliament building where there was zero security as it's not needed. Although there are protests, they are peaceful... except for the racket. They bang on pots and pans. Our guide carries a wooden spoon around in his backpack in case he happens upon a protest and wants to join in. We also learned about Össur Kristinsson whose company Össur produces prosthetics... you know, those blades that the Paralympians wear? Almost all from that company. Very progressive country when it comes to the rights of women and workers and there's an extremely low unemployment rate (thanks in large part to tourism).

Besides the natural beauty, there was some wonderful wool as well. With 20 kids in tow, didn't really have much time to do wool shopping. Some that I did see was a bit scratchy, but to be fair, I only handled a couple of skeins in one shop. 

One of my favorite finds was a mitten that keeps your hand from getting cold when drinking a cold beverage outside. I so wanted this pattern, but couldn't find it for sale anywhere. Found the mittens, but didn't want to buy them already finished, so checked out Ravelry where I found a free download... might need to give it a try.

It wasn't until the airport that I finally had a minute to pick up a skein. Hespa seemed like the yarn of choice at Keflavík International. Not sure I can find a website to show the product as Icelandic businesses often seem to rely on Facebook as their official form of communication. Possibly this is the company website, but not entirely sure. If I ever go back to visit without students, I would love to visit where they make this plant-dyed yarn. The colors are absolutely beautiful. Would love to see more selection as well. Here on the right is the one lonely ball of yarn that I purchased in Iceland. Not sure what it will become, but loved the vibrant color.

If you're planning a trip, I highly recommend Iceland. We went when the weather was amazing, but have heard that it can be windy, wet and bitterly cold, so make sure to pack the wooly sweaters you've made and some knitting needles in case your need to whip up another hat or scarf to keep you warm.